Developing a transparent, sustainable and diverse national security system in China

The holistic view of national security in China was first proposed five years ago, but few open resources report the development of China’s national security system. In April 2014, while presiding over the first meeting of the National Security Commission of the CPC Central Committee, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the need to adhere to a holistic view of national security and explore a “national security path with Chinese characteristics.”

Such a holistic approach calls for a focus on both internal and external security. Internally, it is essential to promote development, continue reform, maintain stability, and create a safe environment. Externally, we should promote international peace, seek cooperation and mutual benefit, and strive to bring harmony to the world. Homeland security and the security of our citizens are both of paramount importance. All initiatives taken in this respect will be people-centric, and implemented for the people, based on the people’s needs, and with the support of the people[1]. Over the past five years, China’s national security reforms have moved toward transparency, sustainability, and diversity.

Building a transparent national security system

Just as CNN reported in 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping has made the anti-corruption campaign his No.1 mission since he became the general secretary of the Communist Party of China. Corruption inside the government has raised serious questions about the efficacy of its self-regulation. While persistent housecleaning is conducive to the government’s image and legitimacy, well-thought-out mechanisms are a more reliable solution.